PRCC graduates ace national exam

Press Release Archive

HATTIESBURG – All 16 graduates this spring from Pearl River Community College’s Medical Radiologic Technology Department at the Forrest County Center successfully passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist certification exam in Medical Radiography, the national certification examination. “The 100 percent pass rate indicates to us that they are well prepared to practice in medical radiography in any healthcare setting,” said David Armstrong, chair of PRCC’s Radiologic Technology Department. “They are also prepared to pursue higher education into the specialties in radiography such as C.T. scanning, MRI scanning, ultrasound, mammography, special procedures and other imaging technologies as well as radiation therapy.” According to Armstrong, the pass rate for the program has been at 100 percent for six of the last seven graduating classes from PRCC. The seventh year was 93 percent. “Our average score based on national averages puts this class into the 100th percentile nationally,” said Armstrong. “Needless to say, we are proud of them.” Eight of the 16 graduates have secured positions while the others are pursuing higher education in areas of management, ultrasound and nursing. Armstrong has directed X-ray technology education programs in Hattiesburg since 1980, first with Hattiesburg Radiology Group for 18 years, then with Forrest General Hospital for a year while transitioning the program to PRCC. He is assisted by Hope Husband, who joined the PRCC staff in 2000 and serves as clinical coordinator and instructor.